Senwes Scenario August/September 2018 | Page 33

AGRICULTURAL DID YOU KNOW?  Currently, there are about 16 500 hectares of avocado plantations in South Africa with many of these in Limpopo.  All avocado cultivars that are grown commercially in South Africa, are known to be sensitive to water stress. A well distributed rainfall in excess of 1 000 mm p.a. is desirable.  Avocados can grow very big with the world record currently standing at 2,37 kg! gramme because its oil content may help reduce overeating - you get full faster and the oil content in an avocado reduces the urge to binge on unhealthy foods. Avocados also have several vitamins and minerals and they also contain fibre. In need of a quick meal? An avocado will easily rescue you as it can be served as a sandwich filling, part of a salad or even eaten on its own with salt and pep- per to taste. Watch the Nation in Conversation episode about avocados by using the following link: http://senwes.co/avos  The avocado is a fatty fruit of the avocado tree and its scientific name is Persea Americana. It is commonly found in and native to Mexico and Central America.  The avocado has a smooth and creamy texture and is rich in mono-unsaturated fat.  There are more than 500 different varieties of avocados with the Hass type being the worldwide favourite.  Avocados will not ripen while they are still attached to the tree; while the fruit is on the tree, it remains hard. It becomes soft and edible only after it has been picked.  To delay browning of a cut avocado, cover the surface of dips, soups and salsas such as guacamole with cling film, pressing it down gently to exclude air. SENWES SCENARIO | SPRING 2018 31